Top 10 Windows Server Alternatives

4.1 out of 5

194 reviews
94% willing to recommend

Top Windows Server Competitors

Discover the top alternatives and competitors to Windows Server based on the interviews we conducted with its users. The top alternative solutions include Ubuntu Linux, Rocky Linux, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). The alternatives are sorted based on how often peers compare the solutions. Windows Server surpasses its competitors by offering robust security features, seamless integration with Azure, and powerful virtualization capabilities, ensuring efficient data management and scalability to meet diverse enterprise needs.

Microsoft Alternatives Report

Learn what solutions real users are comparing with Microsoft, and compare use cases, valuable features, and pricing.

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Ubuntu Linux

4.3 out of 5

Ubuntu Linux

4.3 out of 5

Ubuntu Linux offers cost savings as it's free and open-source, though enterprises may choose paid support. In comparison, Windows Server requires licensing fees, which can be costly, but justifies the expense through extensive application support and integration with Microsoft products.

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Ubuntu Linux features no initial setup costs, while Windows Server demands a costly setup investment, highlighting a significant price difference.

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Ubuntu Linux features no initial setup costs, while Windows Server demands a costly setup investment, highlighting a significant price difference.

Rocky Linux

4.1 out of 5

Rocky Linux

4.1 out of 5

Windows Server is known for its robust integration with Active Directory and seamless support for Microsoft's ecosystem. In comparison, Rocky Linux offers a cost-effective, open-source solution praised for its security and resource efficiency. A tech buyer might choose Windows Server for enterprise support or Rocky Linux for budget-friendly deployment.

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Windows Server's setup costs are significantly higher compared to Rocky Linux, making the latter a more cost-effective option for budget-conscious users.

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Windows Server's setup costs are significantly higher compared to Rocky Linux, making the latter a more cost-effective option for budget-conscious users.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)

4.4 out of 5

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)

4.4 out of 5

Red Hat Enterprise Linux is valued for its security and customization. In comparison, Windows Server excels in integration with Microsoft products. RHEL's open-source model appeals for cost-effectiveness, while Windows Server's extensive features justify its higher price for many enterprises.

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Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) has a higher setup cost, while Windows Server offers a lower initial setup expense. Users note that RHEL's cost reflects its robust support and features, contrasting with Windows Server's more budget-friendly setup.

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Oracle Linux

4.2 out of 5

Oracle Linux

4.2 out of 5

Oracle Linux stands out for its flexibility, integration with Oracle products, and lower costs making it a cost-effective solution. In comparison, Windows Server offers a robust set of features and integrated tools, appealing to those willing to invest in comprehensive functionality.

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Oracle Linux has a lower setup cost compared to Windows Server, which tends to be more expensive in the initial setup phase.

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Oracle Linux has a lower setup cost compared to Windows Server, which tends to be more expensive in the initial setup phase.

SUSE Linux Enterprise

4.3 out of 5

SUSE Linux Enterprise

4.3 out of 5

SUSE Linux Enterprise offers robust server management and security features, ideal for organizations valuing open-source independence. In comparison, Windows Server provides strong integration with Microsoft services, appealing to buyers needing stability and comprehensive enterprise solutions.

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SUSE Linux Enterprise offers a straightforward setup with competitive cost efficiency, while Windows Server involves a higher initial setup cost that may impact budget-conscious users.

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SUSE Linux Enterprise offers a straightforward setup with competitive cost efficiency, while Windows Server involves a higher initial setup cost that may impact budget-conscious users.

CentOS

4.2 out of 5

CentOS

4.2 out of 5

CentOS attracts tech buyers with its cost-effective open-source nature, stability, and Linux compatibility. In comparison, Windows Server appeals due to its robust feature set and ease with enterprise applications, despite its higher cost and complex licensing.

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CentOS offers a lower setup cost compared to Windows Server, which is generally more expensive to implement. This cost difference highlights the budget-friendly advantage of CentOS for users seeking a cost-effective server solution.

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openSUSE Leap

4.6 out of 5

openSUSE Leap

4.6 out of 5

Windows Server excels in integration with Microsoft products and comprehensive security, while openSUSE Leap offers stability and a strong Linux performance. In comparison, openSUSE Leap provides cost-effectiveness and competitive pricing. Both platforms address different business needs, making them viable for various enterprise requirements.

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Windows Server has higher setup costs compared to the more affordable openSUSE Leap.

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Windows Server has higher setup costs compared to the more affordable openSUSE Leap.

Oracle Solaris

4.3 out of 5

Oracle Solaris

4.3 out of 5

Oracle Solaris is recognized for advanced security, reliability, scalability, and performance. In comparison, Windows Server excels in user-friendly management tools, integration capabilities, ease of deployment, extensive documentation, and support resources. Oracle Solaris offers strong long-term ROI, while Windows Server provides good value for investment.

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Oracle Solaris has a higher initial setup cost compared to Windows Server, but it offers more robust security features and scalability. Windows Server, while more economical, may require additional investments for advanced configurations and security enhancements.

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Google Chrome Enterprise

4.2 out of 5

Google Chrome Enterprise

4.2 out of 5

Windows Server offers robust security and extensive software support, making it ideal for enterprises with complex needs. In comparison, Google Chrome Enterprise excels in streamlined management and user-friendly features, particularly beneficial for organizations prioritizing cloud services. Each caters to different enterprise requirements effectively.

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Windows Server has a lower setup cost compared to Google Chrome Enterprise. Google Chrome Enterprise, however, offers a more streamlined setup process.

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Windows Server has a lower setup cost compared to Google Chrome Enterprise. Google Chrome Enterprise, however, offers a more streamlined setup process.

Debian

1 out of 5

Debian

1 out of 5

Windows Server offers seamless Microsoft integration and enterprise support, making it ideal for businesses needing quick deployment. In comparison, Debian's flexibility and minimal costs attract those who value customization and self-sufficiency, appealing to environments focused on budget and performance optimization.

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Windows Server has a higher setup cost compared to Debian's minimal setup expenses, making Debian a more cost-effective choice for initial deployment.

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Windows Server has a higher setup cost compared to Debian's minimal setup expenses, making Debian a more cost-effective choice for initial deployment.

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